About Key City Kids Orthodontics & Pediatrics
In the Abilene, Wylie, Jim Ned & Buffalo Gap Area

Mission Statement
Key City Kids was created to provide specialized dental care for the children and teenagers of Abilene and surrounding communities. Through patient education, competent care, and a desire to serve, we strive to improve our patient’s oral health and their overall well-being. It is our mission that our patients do not leave with just a healthy smile, but also a lasting relationship that serves them into the future.
Our doctors and team are committed to using our knowledge, experience, and training to care for and strengthen the dental health of each and every kid in our practice.
Pediatric Dentistry
We believe pediatric dental care is important because it helps lay a foundation for good, lifelong oral health.
We believe that by providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere, where each child is treated with respect and empathy, we can establish comfort and trust between the patient and the dentist.
We believe that by positive associations between the patient, the dentist, and oral health goals, children graduate from our practice with a deeper commitment to care for and maintain good oral health for life.
Orthodontics
We believe orthodontics is important because it results in a healthy, functional bite. Aligned teeth and correct jaw positions offer improved oral health and overall physical health. Plus, a pleasing smile can exhibit greater self-esteem and self-confidence.
We believe informing each patient of their specific orthodontic conditions is key so that they may be able to choose an orthodontic treatment that suites their individual needs.
We believe that creating and fostering a relationship helps build trust so that our patients are comfortable and confident throughout their treatment.
Meet Our Team
Carson Phillips, DDS, MS & Zachary Ellis, DDS
Carson Phillips, DDS, MS
Dr. Carson Phillips was born and raised in the Permian Basin. After graduating Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas Tech University, Dr. Phillips attended dental school at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. While in dental school, Dr. Phillips was accepted into the dental honor society, Omicron Kappa Upsilon, and graduated in the top of his class with Higher Honors. Dr. Phillips was honored to attend his orthodontic residency at the same institution and completed his three-year residency in May 2017 with a Certificate in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics and a Master of Science in Dental Science.
Dr. Phillips is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association and has earned status of Diplomate with the American Board of Orthodontics.
Dr. Phillips met his wife, Leslie, a fellow Red Raider, while both were attending The University of Texas Health Science Center – San Antonio. When not at the office, Dr. Phillips enjoys traveling, being outdoors, kayaking, snow skiing or time at the lake.
Dr. Phillips is honored to be given the privilege of creating a beautiful smile, together with each patient. He finds great joy in knowing that his work is part of a lifelong investment. He takes pride in educating patients about their treatment plan ensuring that his patients can make well-informed decisions regarding their treatment. Dr. Phillips look forward to serving Abilene and the surrounding communities for years to come.
Zachary Ellis, DDS
Dr. Zachary Ellis grew up in Abilene, TX. He attended college at Texas A&M and earned a degree in Finance while taking prerequisite classes for dental school. He then spent four years at the UT Health Science Center in San Antonio where he earned his Doctorate in Dental Surgery. Afterwards, he attended a one-year residency at the VA hospital in Temple, TX, and there acquired a certificate of Advanced Education in General Dentistry.
Dr. Zach worked as a general dentist for a short time before being accepted into the UT Dental School Pediatric Residency in Laredo, TX. He spent two years in training to earn a certificate in the specialty of pediatric dentistry.
As a board-certified pediatric specialist, Dr. Zach provides care for children of all ages, from infants to teenagers, including those with special needs. He loves working with kids and his goal to provide every patient with a positive, comfortable, and fun experience during the dental visit.
When not practicing dentistry, Dr. Zach enjoys spending time with his wife, Leah, and their four children: Avery, Owen, Anderson, and Emmalyn. He also likes music, biblical studies, cars and motorcycles, reading, exercising, exploring the outdoors, and hanging out with friends.
"We've been taking our 3 children here for a couple of years. Dr. Phillips and Dr. Ellis and the entire staff are absolutely amazing! So friendly, professional, and most importantly, our kids feel comfortable and enjoy the welcoming environment. Our 4th grader recently had his braces removed and the results are absolutely phenomenal!! From start to finish, Dr. Phillips was so great to work with and we could not be happier with the results. We've recommended friends to this location and will continue to highly recommend Key City - Dr. Phillips and Dr. Ellis and all the amazing ladies to everyone we know! My son can't quit showing off his beautiful smile and my other two actually get excited to hear "we're going to get teeth cleaned"🩷 Thank you Key City - Abilene for the great care you provide!"